Bronchiolitis

Bronchiolitis is the inflammation of the bronchioles, and it's most commonly caused by Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

It presents with:

• Increased WOB

• Cough

• Poor feeding

• Coryzal symptoms

• Dyspnoea

• Fever

• Wheeze

Investigations

• History and exam is usually all that's required for a diagnosis, but options include:

  • Chest XR

  • Naso-Pharyngeal Aspirate (NPA) – Detects virus

  • Blood gas

Management

• Avoid overfeeding child as a full stomach push up on the diaphragm and restrict their breathing

• Supplementary O2

• High-risk patients can be given Palivizumab (monoclonal RSV antibodies) for prevention

Complication

Bronchiolitis Obliterans - Infections lead to scarring of the bronchioles, which cause constriction and respiratory failure. This is more likely to be caused by Adenovirus.